Gilberto Silva has pledged his future to Arsenal as he chases the Champions League - the last honour to elude him in in his illustrious career.

And he insists the Gunners can still win major honours without Thierry Henry and Freddie Ljungberg.

After William Gallas was appointed captain as successor to Henry, there was talk that Gilberto would be on his way from the club where he has won the Premier League and FA Cup.

But the Brazilian World Cup winner made it clear he intends to see out the remaining two years of his contract at The Emirates - and that he is fit and ready for action.

Gilberto had an extended summer break after his tour of duty with Brazil as they won the Copa America. But he is now back in full training.

"I am fit and what I want now is games," said the 31-year-old midfielder, who hopes to play in the second leg of the Champions League qualifier against Sparta Prague on Wednesday.

Arsenal won the away leg 2-0 and appear assured of a place in the competition proper.

"That is one trophy I would love to win," said Gilberto. "It is the only one I have not managed to win so far. I am ready to play if the manager wants me to."

Gilberto also stressed he has no wish to leave the club, and is sure he has an important role to play even though his opportunities may well be restricted as Arsene Wenger's young guns begin to make their mark.

He said: "I feel I still have a part to play at Arsenal - on the pitch as well as off the pitch.

"I can help with the young guys. Sometimes they get angry when things are not going well and I can talk to them."

He also feels that Arsenal can still be genuine title contenders.

"We lost Thierry and Freddie, but in the Copa America Brazil proved they could win without Ronaldinho and Kaka. We have a young team at Arsenal, that is true, but the quality is there."

Gilberto also revealed that he has spoken face-to-face with Wenger about the captaincy. It had been assumed the Brazilian would be given the armband before it went to Gallas.

"I spoke with Arsene and we sorted it out," said Gilberto. "Everything between us is clear.

"I have two years left on my contract and I want to stay. I am committed to what we are doing here."

Gilberto was speaking at the launch of Arsenal's adoption of TreeHouse as their official charity of the season. The club are helping to raise #250,000 for the school, who want to build sports facilities at the organisation's new National Centre for Autism Education in Muswell Hill, North London. More information about TreeHouse can be found at www.treehouse.org.uk